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Running for Dad: Declan’s Canal Slam Challenge

Patient and Family Stories

In 2023, Declan Logan completed the Yorkshire Marathon in memory of his dad, Kevin, and to thank Rotherham Hospice; the place that cared for his family when they needed it most. But in 2025, he wanted to do something even bigger.

That challenge became the Canal Slam — a series of three ultramarathons that stretch the length of England:

  • The Grand Union Canal Race – 145 miles (24th May)
  • The Kennet & Avon Canal Race – 145 miles (25th July)
  • The Liverpool to Leeds Canal Race – 130 miles (23rd August)

Over one extraordinary summer, Declan set out to complete all three, a feat achieved by only 59 people before him. Step by step, canal by canal, he ran over 420 miles to honour his dad’s memory and raise vital funds for Rotherham Hospice.

“Rotherham Hospice made it possible for Dad to pass away peacefully with his family by his side. Their expert care turned his final months into some of the most valuable and rewarding of our lives.”

Kevin Logan was diagnosed with cancer in March 2021. Declan describes his dad as a man of courage and kindness – someone who carried the weight of his diagnosis while comforting those around him. “The courage he possessed inspires me and countless others, whose lives he impacted in so many ways – big and small.”

Rotherham Hospice gave Kevin and his family comfort, dignity, and care when it mattered most. For Declan, that experience shaped a lifelong connection:

“Their expert care aided his final few months and made them some of the most valuable and rewarding of my entire life.”

 

Through his Canal Slam challenge, Declan not only completed an extraordinary physical test — he raised an incredible £15,395 to help others receive the same compassionate care his dad did.

A lasting impact

Rotherham Hospice is an independent charity, providing specialist care and support for anyone affected by a terminal illness across Rotherham and its surrounding villages. It costs over £6 million each year to keep our services running, and we rely on the generosity of people like Declan to make it possible.

If you’d like to take on your own challenge, fundraise in memory of someone special, or simply support local hospice care, visit: rotherhamhospice.org.uk/fundraise

How can you help?

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